It’s true that he’s a feisty character who gives the Canucks a much-needed dose of grit and tenacity, but for far too long it’s become a defining characteristic that overshadows his tangible value.

That ability to drive quality two-way play was something The Athletic’s very own JD Burke highlighted in a piece advocating for the 29-year-old Frenchmen in the aftermath of his July 1st signing.

Then in November, I took it a step further and claimed Roussel was an underrated playmaker and had the tools and offensive results to warrant an extended opportunity in a top-six that was cycling through wingers like Tim Schaller on Bo Horvat’s line.

The results this season are certainly congruent from both perspectives.

On the scoring side of things, Roussel’s nestled in as a valuable secondary contributor with 29 points in 63 games. On first glance, it doesn’t sound too...